India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka

CNI Synod Delhi, 2017.

06
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12 May 2018

INTERCESSIONS

We are thankful for:

the diversity of peoples in these countries: their cultures, values and spirituality

for the resilience of minority religious groups and those on the margins of society such as indigenous communities, Dalits, women, youth, the disabled and sexual minorities, amid discrimination and persecution

for the contributions of Christians and Christian churches in these countries to education and health services and for their innovative attempts in contextualizing their worship, theology and institutional life

efforts to forge inter-religious solidarity for the sake of the common good.

We pray for:

those who struggle to overcome grinding poverty

Christians and others who selflessly work in the community, their efforts at ensuring the rights of all citizens, and their collaborative work

efforts to build understanding and harmony among peoples across religious, caste and ethnic identities

peoples’ movements struggling for the rights of women, Dalits, Indigenous peoples, and the integrity of the earth

leaders to keep priority on the wellbeing of the people and the earth itself amid demands for economic growth.

PRAYER

O Creator and Mighty God,you have promisedstrength for the weakrest for the labourerslight for the waygrace for the trialshelp from aboveunfailing sympathyundying love.O Creator and Mighty GodHelp us to continue in your promise.

Prayer from India:

When everything around seems to be collapsing into injustice and chaosCreator God, teach us to love youand to recognize that you hold the earth gently in your hands.When we do not know just what to do and where to turn,teach us to trust your wisdom,so that we can discern your presence in events around us.When we become unforgiving and vindictive,teach us to grasp your tenderness,and forgive us for all we do wrong.When violence, fear and hatred seem to overtake us,teach us to receive your compassion,and steer our lives in the ways of justice and peace.When we think we can go it alone,teach us to depend on your grace,so that with patience and persistence we can transform the world.But most of all,teach us to appreciate your goodness,for in you we have new life!